Dental Digest Podcast with Dr. Melissa Seibert

The Dental Digest podcast is a show dedicated to discussing the latest trends, topics, and innovations in the field of dentistry. The podcast was created and is hosted by Dr. Melissa Seibert, a practicing dentist, and features interviews with leading experts in the field of dentistry, including dentists, researchers, educators, and industry professionals. Topics covered on the show range from clinical techniques and technology to practice management and marketing strategies, with a focus on providing actionable insights and practical advice for dental professionals at all stages of their careers. The Dental Digest podcast is available on all major podcast platforms and is a valuable resource for dental professionals looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field of dentistry.

Building a Fee-for-Service Practice Through Trust, Diagnosis, and Meaningful Conversations with Dr. Brian Vence 01/27/2026

Building a Fee-for-Service Practice Through Trust, Diagnosis, and Meaningful Conversations with Dr. Brian Vence Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: Episode Description In part one of this two-part conversation, Dr. Brian Vence shares a deeply thoughtful and experience-driven perspective on what it actually takes to build a successful fee-for-service practice—one rooted not in persuasion or sales tactics, but in trust, diagnosis, and meaningful human connection. With more than three decades of clinical experience and a career dedicated to interdisciplinary, comprehensive care, Dr. Vence reframes treatment planning as a behavioral and relational process, not a transactional one. He challenges the idea that comprehensive dentistry is something that must be “sold,” and instead positions it as a process of helping patients clarify their own values, goals, and tolerance for risk—at their pace, not ours. This episode explores how dentists can meet patients where they are without abandoning ideal diagnosis. Dr. Vence explains why patients often fixate on a single tooth or isolated concern, and how honoring that starting point—when done thoughtfully—can open the door to deeper, more comprehensive care over time. Rather than overwhelming patients with full-mouth solutions on day one, he advocates for sequencing conversations, building psychological safety, and creating space for patients to envision what’s possible. A major theme of the discussion is the concept of “Pathways to Essential and Meaningful Treatment.” Dr. Vence walks through how environment, language, and timing directly influence patient decision-making—and why treatment planning conversations are often better held outside the operatory, away from the fight-or-flight associations many patients carry with dentistry. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why fee-for-service dentistry begins with mindset and culture—not insurance policies How to stop “convincing” patients and instead become a clear, unbiased sounding board Why comprehensive treatment planning is fundamentally about behavior, not procedures How environment and language influence whether patients feel safe enough to future-focus The importance of honoring patient autonomy while still holding space for ideal diagnosis Dr. Vence also shares practical insights into new patient workflows, from the first phone call to in-office consultations, emphasizing the value of curiosity, listening, and slowing down. He highlights why efficiency often crowds out effectiveness—and why the most productive clinical days are rarely about volume, but about depth of connection. This conversation is especially relevant for dentists who feel tension between practicing the dentistry they know is right and navigating patient hesitancy, financial concerns, or insurance-driven expectations. If you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to align comprehensive care with patient readiness, this episode offers a grounded, humane, and sustainable way forward. Part one sets the philosophical and relational foundation. In part two, the conversation continues into diagnosis, case presentation, and how to guide patients through complex decisions without coercion. This is not an episode about selling dentistry. It’s about helping patients—and clinicians—make clearer, more meaningful choices. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39660100

Dr. John Kois's Clinical Decision-Making Regarding Wear Patients 01/20/2026

Dr. John Kois's Clinical Decision-Making Regarding Wear Patients Join Elevated GP: Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: Episode Description In part two of this in-depth conversation, Dr. John Kois moves beyond theory and into clinical application, tackling the questions every restorative dentist eventually faces: Who is actually a high-risk occlusal patient? How do we distinguish past adaptation from active breakdown? And why do so many “standard solutions” fail to prevent restorative complications? Building on the foundational concepts from part one, this episode focuses on how occlusion shows up in day-to-day practice—and how dentists can make more informed decisions before committing to complex restorative or implant treatment. Dr. Kois explains why visual wear alone is an unreliable predictor of risk, how to identify whether wear is active versus inactive, and why patient symptoms often tell a more important story than what we see on models or scans. A major theme of this conversation is closing the gap between chairside evaluation and real-world function. Dr. Kois challenges common habits—such as adjusting restorations with patients fully reclined, relying solely on articulating paper marks, or reflexively prescribing nightguards—and explains why these approaches often miss the true etiology of failure. Instead, he emphasizes evaluating occlusion in positions and movements that reflect how patients actually chew, speak, and function throughout the day. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to identify true high-risk occlusal cases before restorative treatment begins Why active wear and patient-reported change matter more than historical attrition How muscle symptoms, mobility, and joint loading influence predictability When nightguards and Botox may mask symptoms rather than solve the problem Why larger restorative and implant cases demand a deeper understanding of jaw position, tooth fit, and functional pathways Dr. Kois also shares candid insights on emerging technologies such as jaw tracking—where they add value, where they fall short, and why they are most impactful in comprehensive and full-arch cases rather than routine dentistry. The discussion highlights an important truth: many restorative failures are not material failures, but diagnostic failures rooted in incomplete occlusal assessment. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on learning, clinical growth, and professional development—distinguishing information from knowledge, and knowledge from wisdom. Dr. Kois outlines the progression from skepticism to commitment, underscoring why true clinical mastery requires not just understanding concepts, but applying them consistently over time. Together, parts one and two form a cohesive framework for thinking differently about occlusion—one grounded in physiology, adaptation, and long-term predictability. If you’re aiming to move beyond bread-and-butter dentistry and into more complex, fulfilling clinical work, this conversation provides essential perspective on how to do so more thoughtfully and successfully. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39659795

Dr. John Kois Reframes Occlusion 01/13/2026

Dr. John Kois Reframes Occlusion Join Elevated GP: Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: Episode Description Occlusion is one of the most talked-about—and most misunderstood—topics in restorative dentistry. In this first installment of a two-part conversation, Dr. John Kois challenges many of the static, mechanical definitions of occlusion that most dentists were taught in dental school and offers a fundamentally different way of thinking about how the masticatory system actually works in real patients. Drawing from decades of clinical practice, specialty training in both periodontics and prosthodontics, and his experience educating restorative dentists around the world, Dr. Kois reframes occlusion as a dynamic, adaptive system rather than a fixed set of contacts to be checked off with articulating paper. He explains why relying solely on traditional concepts like MIP, right and left working movements, and morphological classifications often fails to predict long-term outcomes—and why this gap is at the root of many restorative failures, postoperative sensitivity, mobility, muscle pain, and patient dissatisfaction. This episode lays the foundation for understanding occlusion through the lens of function, adaptation, and risk, rather than dogma. Dr. Kois introduces key concepts such as pathway wear, jaw position relative to the head, and the body’s adaptive responses to occlusal disharmony—highlighting why so many problems are misattributed to bruxism, airway issues, or “parafunction,” when the true etiology lies elsewhere. You’ll hear why: MIP should be viewed as a terminal position, not the starting point of occlusal analysis Static bite relationships often tell us very little about whether an occlusion is actually working Pathway wear is one of the most critical—and commonly missed—risk factors in restorative cases Many restorative “failures” are actually adaptive responses by the body trying to protect itself Dentists often succeed not because occlusion is ideal, but because patients adapt—sometimes at a long-term biological cost This conversation is especially relevant for dentists who want to move beyond single-tooth dentistry and into more comprehensive care—full-mouth cases, complex restorative planning, implant rehabilitation, and interdisciplinary treatment. If you’ve ever had a case that looked perfect on the articulator but unraveled clinically, this episode will help you understand why. Part one sets the conceptual framework. In part two, the discussion continues into how these principles influence diagnosis, restorative decision-making, and long-term predictability. If occlusion has ever felt confusing, frustrating, or inconsistent in your hands, this episode will help you start seeing the system differently—and more clearly. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39659715

Difficult Patients: How Dentists Actually Get in Trouble (and How to Protect Your License) — Part 2 with Evan Sampson 01/08/2026

Difficult Patients: How Dentists Actually Get in Trouble (and How to Protect Your License) — Part 2 with Evan Sampson Episode Description In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, we move from theory into the real-world details that quietly put dentists at risk every single day. My guest, Evan Sampson, is a healthcare attorney who has served as general counsel to one of the largest dental support organizations in the country. He brings a rare and invaluable perspective at the intersection of dentistry, law, payer audits, and regulatory enforcement — and in this episode, we get very specific. We unpack what actually makes certain procedures, CDT codes, and clinical scenarios high-risk from a fraud, waste, and abuse standpoint, even when there is no malicious intent. Evan explains how dentists inadvertently get flagged as outliers, why payer audits are often data-driven rather than complaint-driven, and how documentation gaps — not clinical skill — are what ultimately create exposure. This conversation goes deep into: Why up-coding, unbundling, and weak surgical extraction documentation are some of the most common (and expensive) pitfalls How payer audits are triggered, what auditors look for, and why Medicaid claims carry disproportionate risk Why dentists should write progress notes as if a regulator, payer, or board investigator will read them later — because one day, they might The legal realities of fee-for-service, out-of-network billing, professional courtesy, discounts, and when “good intentions” can still create compliance problems We also spend significant time on a topic every dentist encounters but few are trained to manage: difficult and high-risk patients. Evan shares how to identify red flags that may not be obvious at first, when it is appropriate to terminate the doctor-patient relationship, and how to do so without exposing yourself to allegations of abandonment. We discuss unruly patients, non-payment, mid-treatment dismissals, refunds, releases, and why protecting your license sometimes means making uncomfortable — but strategic — decisions. This episode is ultimately about risk reduction, professionalism, and self-preservation. Not practicing defensively, but practicing deliberately. Tightening the details. Building a culture of compliance. And understanding that most dentists who get into serious trouble never thought they were doing anything wrong. If you care about protecting your license, your livelihood, and your future — this is an episode you don’t want to skip. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39585460

Fraud, Documentation, and the Notes That Can Haunt You: A Dentist’s Guide to Staying Out of Trouble (Part 1) — with Evan Sampson, JD 01/01/2026

Fraud, Documentation, and the Notes That Can Haunt You: A Dentist’s Guide to Staying Out of Trouble (Part 1) — with Evan Sampson, JD Episode Description Most dentists think of compliance as a background concern—something administrative, abstract, or handled by “the office.” In reality, it’s one of the highest-risk, most overlooked areas of modern dental practice. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with Evan Sampson, a healthcare attorney with over a decade of experience advising dentists and healthcare organizations on fraud, waste, abuse, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation. Evan has served as General Counsel to a major dental support organization and held senior compliance leadership roles within the largest municipal hospital system in the United States. In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on what compliance actually looks like in day-to-day dentistry—and why well-intentioned clinicians often put themselves at risk without realizing it. This conversation reframes clinical notes as legal evidence, not just charting formalities. Together, Dr. Seibert and Evan explore how common documentation habits—templated notes, vague progress entries, auto-populated language, and inconsistent coding—can quietly become liabilities during audits, payer disputes, or board complaints. You’ll hear a candid breakdown of: What fraud, waste, and abuse actually look like in everyday dental practice (and why most of it is inadvertent) Why documentation and coding errors are among the most common sources of exposure for dentists The legal risks of upcoding, unbundling, and inaccurate procedure representation Why surgical vs. simple extraction coding is so frequently audited How “write it once and forget it” charting can come back years later—with real consequences The mindset shift dentists need: writing notes as if they will be read aloud in a courtroom Why the cover-up—or “fixing” notes improperly—is often worse than the original mistake How compliance, when done well, can actually reveal missed revenue and operational inefficiencies This episode isn’t about fear-mongering. It’s about clarity, ownership, and professional maturity. If you’re a dentist who cares deeply about doing the right thing—clinically and ethically—this conversation will fundamentally change how you think about notes, coding, and responsibility. And this is just the foundation. Part 2 will go even deeper into consent, adverse events, and proactive strategies to protect yourself, your license, and your future. If you’ve ever thought: “I didn’t know that could be a problem.” “That’s how we’ve always charted.” “The front desk handles the coding.” This episode is required listening. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39585380

Fee-for-Service Without Fear with Dr. David Eshom 12/22/2025

Fee-for-Service Without Fear with Dr. David Eshom Join Elevated GP: Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: In Part 2 of this powerful series, Dr. Melissa Seibert continues her in-depth conversation with cosmetic dentist and AACD leader Dr. David Eshom, exploring the deeper psychological, business, and interpersonal frameworks that underpin a thriving fee-for-service practice. Together, they unpack the realities of transitioning away from insurance dependence, the emotional traps dentists fall into, and the communication strategies that safeguard both the patient relationship and the dentist’s peace of mind. Dr. Eshom offers decades of wisdom on how to recognize patient readiness, how to present comprehensive treatment without triggering defensiveness, and how to gracefully identify patients who may not be ideal candidates for complex care. He shares the subtle behavioral cues that differentiate collaborative patients from those who may become litigious, overly exacting, or misaligned with your practice philosophy—and how to exit these relationships ethically and respectfully when needed. The episode also tackles some of the profession’s most pressing realities: Why the insurance model forces dentists into ethical and financial corners How to communicate a fee-for-service structure without alienating patients The psychology behind presenting conditions and consequences—not pressure and sales Why slowing down for deeper exams ultimately accelerates practice growth How to block your schedule, restructure hygiene exams, and build time for meaningful conversations The importance of discernment: knowing when a patient is truly a “yes,” when they’re a “not now,” and when they’re a “no” Dr. Eshom also walks through his workflow for large aesthetic cases—from shade decisions to motivational mock-ups and trial smiles—while highlighting how these tools improve clarity, set expectations, and reduce risk for both patient and provider. The conversation concludes with a reflective discussion about building a freedom-based business, attracting aligned patients, and creating a practice model that delivers exceptional dentistry without compromising your wellbeing, your values, or your clinical standards. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your practice beyond the constraints of insurance, identify ideal patients, or cultivate a career defined by autonomy and fulfillment, this episode is a masterclass in sustainable, relationship-driven dentistry. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39311560

Dr. David Eshom’s Blueprint for Patient-Initiated Dentistry 12/15/2025

Dr. David Eshom’s Blueprint for Patient-Initiated Dentistry Join Elevated GP: Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: n Part 1 of this two-part series, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with cosmetic dentist and AACD residency preceptor Dr. David Eshom for a powerful conversation that reframes how dentists think about photography, diagnosis, communication, and case acceptance. Drawing from more than 20 years of comprehensive cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Eshom reveals why extraoral photography—not intraoral cameras, not radiographs—is the single most effective tool for building trust and helping patients clearly see the value of comprehensive care. Together, they break down a step-by-step new patient workflow that seamlessly blends diagnostics with psychology, showing how simple point-and-shoot photography placed at the beginning of the exam can elevate patient engagement, differentiate your practice, and eliminate the pressure-based communication styles that leave patients feeling skeptical or overwhelmed. Dr. Eshom explains how co-diagnosis—rooted in permission-based dialogue and visual storytelling—helps patients recognize their own conditions, understand consequences, and ask for solutions rather than being sold to. This episode dives into: The most overlooked use of photography in dentistry: real-time conversation with the patient How to structure a new patient visit that fosters trust, clarity, and long-term case acceptance Why facially generated treatment planning is so effective—especially for patients who “never knew” what their smile looked like Communication strategies that shift patients from an “insurance model” to a value-driven mindset How simplifying photography (yes, even with an iPhone or point-and-shoot) makes comprehensive exams dramatically more effective What to say—and not say—when presenting conditions to avoid making patients feel judged or pressured How this method empowered Dr. Eshom to build a fully fee-for-service practice and drop every insurance plan This conversation is practical, strategic, and deeply grounded in human psychology. If you want a proven communication system that elevates your new patient experience, improves case acceptance, and builds lifelong patient trust—all without feeling salesy—this episode will reshape how you practice. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39311525

Modern TMJ Surgery with Dr. Scotty Bolding 12/08/2025

Modern TMJ Surgery with Dr. Scotty Bolding Join Elevated GP: Register for the live meeting: Download the Injection Molding Guide: In Part 2 of this powerful two-part series, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits back down with renowned oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Scott Bolding, whose orthopedic-driven approach to TMJ diagnostics and surgery is reshaping how dentistry understands joint disease. If you’ve ever wondered why TMJ patients get “punted” from provider to provider, why MRI-based diagnosis never became mainstream, or how degenerative joint pathology silently derails orthodontic and restorative outcomes, this episode will fundamentally change the way you think. Dr. Bolding unpacks the historical missteps that led to dentistry’s decades-long avoidance of TMJ surgery—from disastrous 1980s implant materials to insurance fallout and a profession-wide retreat from joint management. He explains how this cultural shift created clinical blind spots that we still see today, and why the message of “TMJ will get better if you leave it alone” has harmed diagnostic rigor for an entire generation of dentists. Together, Dr. Seibert and Dr. Bolding explore: How ligament injury leads to disc displacement—and when that displacement becomes surgically relevant Why MRI and CBCT are indispensable tools for modern diagnosis (and what specific radiographic findings clinicians should never overlook) How unaddressed joint pathology contributes to tooth wear, occlusal collapse, postoperative symptoms, and even failed orthognathic cases The truth about total joint prostheses today—far removed from the failed biomaterials of the past—and why custom joints offer dramatic predictability for patients with severe degeneration The critical need for comprehensive dentists to reclaim TMJ literacy and function as quarterbacks—not bystanders—in interdisciplinary care Dr. Bolding also describes the orthopedic model for surgical decision-making, clarifying when joints can be repaired, when they cannot, and how airway considerations should influence mandibular advancement in joint reconstruction. The conversation closes with a call to action for dentists everywhere: joint-aware dentistry isn’t optional—it’s foundational to predictable outcomes in restorative, orthodontic, and airway-driven treatment planning. This is a masterclass in the contemporary philosophy of TMJ management—equal parts clinical insight, historical context, and future-forward thinking. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39311510

Orthognathic Surgery IS Airway Surgery: Dr. Scott Bolding on Rethinking Skeletal Positioning 11/28/2025

Managing Occlusion in Wear Patients with Dr. Gregg Kinzer 11/20/2025

Managing Occlusion in Wear Patients with Dr. Gregg Kinzer Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on His interdisciplinary approach to dentistry is founded in both empirical research and clinical experience. He attended the University of Washington for both his undergraduate and graduate studies where he received his D.D.S. degree in 1995 and an M.S.D. and certificate in Prosthodontics in 1998. For his entire career, Dr. Kinzer has been committed to furthering the art and science of dental education. His unique ability to impart complex clinical processes in a logical, systematic and clear methodology differentiates him from other Prosthodontists and makes him a highly regarded educator nationally and internationally. He is a full-time teaching faculty at Spear Education in Scottsdale, AZ. where he is also resides as the Faculty Chairman and Director of Curriculum and Campus Education. Dr. Kinzer is an Affiliate Assistant Professor in the Graduate Prosthodontics Department at the University of Washington School of Dentistry and an Adjunct Faculty at Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Dr. Kinzer is a member of many professional organizations including the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, of which he is currently the sitting President. He serves on the editorial review board for several recognized dental publications and has written numerous articles and chapters for dental publication. He has been honored with the American College of Prosthodontics Achievement Award and in 2018, he received the Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning from the Seattle Study Club. In 2022 he was inducted into the World’s Top 100 Doctors as part of the Interdisciplinary Cohort. In his free time, Gregg cherishes spending time his wife Jill and their 6 children. He enjoys anything that he can do outside: golfing, hiking, running, skiing, and biking, in addition to a nice glass of wine. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/39111875

The E-B-C Concept: Designing the Implant Emergence Profile with Biologic Precision with Dr. Jonathan Esquivel, 11/12/2025

The E-B-C Concept: Designing the Implant Emergence Profile with Biologic Precision with Dr. Jonathan Esquivel, Email me: dr.melissaseibert@gmail.com Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on In this second installment of Dental Digest’s conversation with Dr. Jonathan Esquivel, host Dr. Melissa Seibert and her guest push deeper into the artistry, biology, and discipline required to restore anterior implants that are as functional as they are beautiful. While Part 1 introduced Esquivel’s framework of space, volume, and time, this episode focuses on the next frontier—provisionalization, emergence-profile design, and the E-B-C concept that defines the biologic foundations of aesthetic implant therapy. Dr. Esquivel begins by demystifying the provisionalization workflow for anterior implants—whether immediate or delayed. He walks listeners step by step through decision-making factors such as ridge healing, tissue phenotype, and the importance of minimizing the number of disconnections to protect the fragile mucosal seal. He stresses that efficiency in implant dentistry isn’t about finishing fast—it’s about achieving predictability in the fewest biologically respectful appointments. The discussion then turns to the team-based dynamics between the restorative dentist and the surgeon. Dr. Esquivel details how he coordinates cases digitally, sending STL files and mock-ups for joint planning before the first incision. His six-phase system—Acquisition, Blueprint, Confirmation, Design, Execution, and Follow-up—illustrates how restorative-driven implant dentistry must begin with facial and prosthetic design, not with a drill guide. From there, the episode dives into the chairside artistry of immediate provisionalization. Using a pre-milled shell and temporary cylinder, Dr. Esquivel describes how to “pick up” a provisional and sculpt the subgingival contours in real time. But as he emphasizes, the true challenge lies not in fabrication—but in understanding how material additions and reductions influence soft-tissue behavior. This insight leads to one of the most clinically valuable segments of the episode: Dr. Esquivel’s E-B-C concept, an evolution of the classic critical- and subcritical-contour framework. The E-Zone (Esthetic Zone), roughly the first millimeter below the gingival zenith, governs margin stability and the visible pink–white transition. The B-Zone (Biologic or Boundary Zone) supports the mucosal seal and should remain concave to create space for healthy soft tissue. The C-Zone (Crestal Zone), the most apical 1–2 mm, must be slim and biologically quiet to preserve the crestal bone. Dr. Esquivel explains how even subtle over-contouring in these zones can trigger recession or bone loss, while proper shaping promotes long-term harmony between implant and tissue. Using tactile language, he describes his preference for pear-shaped acrylic burs to sculpt the concavity of the B-zone, and how digital workflows now allow clinicians to model these micro-contours virtually before any material is placed. The conversation culminates in a reflection on philosophy as much as technique. Dr. Esquivel urges clinicians to focus on mastering the basics—aesthetic symmetry, biologic respect, and patience—rather than chasing novelty. “An implant is not a tooth,” he reminds us. “Our goal is to protect the bone, guide the tissue, and understand what we can’t see.” Listeners will leave this episode with a detailed understanding of: How to design, print, or fabricate custom provisionals that shape the soft tissue biologically The dimensional logic behind the E-B-C zones and how each governs tissue stability Why limiting abutment disconnections preserves the mucosal seal How digital and analog workflows can be integrated seamlessly And the mindset shift required to see implants not as prosthetic devices, but as biologic restorations Part 2 is both a masterclass in subgingival design and a meditation on restraint. Dr. Esquivel reminds us that excellence in implant aesthetics doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from doing less, but with absolute intention. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/38775990

Implant Aesthetics Unpacked: Biologic Design & Power of Provisionalization with Dr. Jonathan Esquivel 11/05/2025

Implant Aesthetics Unpacked: Biologic Design & Power of Provisionalization with Dr. Jonathan Esquivel Email me Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on In this episode of Dental Digest, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with prosthodontist and educator Dr. Jonathan Esquivel for part one of an enlightening two-part series that explores the biologic and aesthetic complexities of implant restoration. Known for his meticulous approach and his evidence-based framework of space, volume, and time, Dr. Esquivel brings clarity to one of dentistry’s most challenging frontiers: the anterior aesthetic zone. They begin by examining why restoring a single anterior implant is often considered the ultimate test of restorative mastery. Dr. Esquivel explains that implants behave fundamentally differently from natural roots—they lack the periodontal ligament and its vascular support—making soft tissue far less forgiving. Even slight changes in tissue contour or bone volume can compromise long-term success. He introduces his four cornerstones for implant predictability: luck (biologic variability), three-dimensional positioning, emergence-profile design, and patient maintenance, emphasizing that precision and patient education are inseparable. The conversation then turns to three-dimensional implant positioning and the role of reverse-engineered planning. Dr. Esquivel insists that every implant must begin with the end in mind—by first visualizing where the tooth should be. He details how ideal placement, roughly 4 mm apical to the planned incisal edge and aligned toward the cingulum, forms the foundation for natural emergence and long-term stability. But true success, he notes, depends equally on interdisciplinary collaboration—sometimes requiring orthodontic repositioning or periodontal modification before an implant is ever placed. Dr. Esquivel and Dr. Seibert next tackle the aesthetic challenge of adjacent implants and the pursuit of symmetry. Perfect papillae between centrals are notoriously difficult to maintain, and Dr. Esquivel discusses techniques—from soft-tissue grafting to orthodontic extrusion—to preserve harmony between the pink and the white. He stresses that treatment planning is as much about patient selection and expectation management as it is about surgical technique: “The hardest part isn’t the implant—it’s finding a patient willing to go through the process.” The discussion deepens into the critical role of soft tissue in achieving lasting aesthetics. Dr. Esquivel explains his distinction between margin-preservation therapies (maintaining existing tissue contours) and margin-re-establishment therapies (rebuilding lost dimensions). He makes a compelling case that most anterior implants benefit from connective-tissue grafting, since thicker tissue phenotypes promote margin stability, mask restorative materials, and protect against recession. From there, the episode explores ridge dimensional changes after extraction—why bone and soft-tissue collapse are inevitable without intervention, and how provisional restorations can slow this process. Dr. Esquivel cautions against relying on removable flippers, which may accelerate resorption, and instead advocates for properly designed Essix retainers or fixed provisionals that maintain space without transmitting occlusal pressure. His guiding principle: space, volume, and time—allowing tissue to heal in an environment that supports both biological integrity and aesthetic form. The conversation culminates with an in-depth reflection on the biological and prosthetic purpose of provisionalization. Drawing on insights from Dr. Todd Schoenbaum, Dr. Esquivel reframes the provisional phase not as optional, but as biologically mandatory. The provisional guides tissue healing, allows for gradual adaptation, and provides essential information for the ceramist—ensuring that the final crown replicates the ideal emergence contours established chairside. As Dr. Esquivel puts it, “Dentists should take credit not for the white, but for the pink—the transition zone we’ve designed and stabilized.” By the end of this episode, listeners will gain a detailed understanding of: How to apply Dr. Esquivel’s space–volume–time model to aesthetic implant planning The biologic reasoning behind connective-tissue grafting and margin-preservation therapies Why provisionalization is central to both soft-tissue stability and prosthetic accuracy How to communicate healing timelines and realistic expectations to patients Part one of this series is both technically rigorous and refreshingly human—an exploration of how aesthetic implant success lies not in speed or convenience, but in respecting biology, sequencing, and time. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/38775975

Why Implants Aren’t Always the Answer: Biologic Respect and Restorative Restraint with Dr. David Attia 10/29/2025

Why Implants Aren’t Always the Answer: Biologic Respect and Restorative Restraint with Dr. David Attia Email me: Dr.melissaseibert@gmail.com Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on Episode Summary In this powerful continuation of their two-part conversation, Dr. Melissa Seibert and Dr. David Attia dive beyond digital workflows to confront the deeper philosophical questions shaping modern implant dentistry. Building on last week’s discussion of data stacking, SmileCloud integration, and biologically driven design, this episode explores the nuanced realities of aesthetic-zone decision-making, ethical treatment planning, and the human side of high-level clinical care. Dr. Attia opens with an unflinching look at when—and why—implants may not be the ideal solution. Using examples from his collaboration with renowned prosthodontist Dr. Tony Rotondo, he explains why lateral incisors often perform better with resin-bonded fixed partial dentures (FDPs) rather than implants, especially in cases with limited mesiodistal space or compromised interproximal bone. He and Dr. Seibert examine the synergy between partial extraction therapy and resin-bonded FDPs, illustrating how biologic preservation can achieve long-term aesthetic stability with less surgical intervention. From there, the conversation transitions to Attia’s mastery of provisionalization strategies in the aesthetic zone. He details how he designs custom healing abutments and Maryland-style bridges that provide patients with fixed provisionals—even when primary stability is limited. Listeners gain an inside look at his precision-driven process for contouring the subcritical zone, controlling soft-tissue architecture, and creating minimal yet functional clearance between the pontic and abutment. His philosophy is simple but profound: every anterior patient should leave the chair with something fixed—even if it isn’t load-bearing. The discussion then widens to tackle the moral tension between commercial dentistry and biologic integrity. Dr. Seibert asks the hard question: How do clinicians reconcile high-quality, time-intensive dentistry with the economic pressures of high-volume practice? Dr. Attia’s answer is unequivocal—ethical dentistry may take longer and require greater effort, but the money follows the mastery. He critiques the growing trend of overtreatment in both restorative and surgical spheres, warning of a coming wave of revision cases born from expedience and over-commercialization. Attia advocates for a “longevity-first” mindset—prioritizing preservation over replacement, patient education over production, and sustainable outcomes over speed. Drawing from his own follow-ups across fourteen practices, he reflects on the humility and evolution that come with long-term case review: what he did six months ago wasn’t wrong—but it can always be better. The episode concludes with a candid meditation on values alignment in practice. Both clinicians emphasize the importance of knowing one’s philosophy, communicating it transparently, and being comfortable acknowledging that “you’re not everyone’s dentist.” Attia urges younger practitioners to resist the social-media allure of aggressive full-arch cases, reminding them that truly exceptional dentistry begins with sound biologic principles, refined communication, and disciplined restraint. Listeners will leave this episode with: A framework for choosing between implants and resin-bonded FDPs in the aesthetic zone Strategies for designing custom provisionals that maintain soft-tissue integrity Guidance on educating patients about biologic and financial “costs” of treatment Insight into navigating the ethical crossroads of modern dentistry This conversation is both technical and deeply human—a masterclass on how to balance innovation with integrity and how to practice dentistry that endures not just biologically, but ethically. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/38775585

Preservation as Regeneration: The Biology Behind Dr. David Attia’s Implant Philosophy 10/22/2025

Preservation as Regeneration: The Biology Behind Dr. David Attia’s Implant Philosophy Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on In this first of a two-part series, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with Dr. David Attia—an international educator leading the charge in digital and implant dentistry—to explore how advanced technologies are revolutionizing multidisciplinary care. Together, they unpack how tools like SmileCloud, CBCT segmentation, and 3D facial scanning are allowing clinicians to “stack” digital data for unparalleled treatment precision. Dr. Attia shares how virtual patient workflows have streamlined his implant and aesthetic planning, transforming coordination between surgical, restorative, and laboratory teams. The discussion also dives into biologically driven implant concepts, the evolution of partial extraction therapy, and the philosophy that “preservation is the ultimate form of regeneration.” This episode will reshape how you think about digital integration and tissue preservation in the aesthetic zone. Dr. David Attia completed his undergraduate training at Griffith University, Queensland. Following graduation, Dr. Attia completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics through the City of London Dental School. David’s passion for surgery led him to complete a Master’s in Oral Implantology through Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany. His Master’s thesis focused on a novel approach in full-arch implant rehabilitations and he presented his research at the 6th Annual Congress of Innovation Jumps in Oral Implantology. Dr. Attia now holds a teaching appointment with Goethe University as a surgical mentor for Australian students completing the program. He has also presented on the implementation of photography into clinical practice, as well as the importance of soft tissue management around implants both locally and abroad. Dr. Attia is a core faculty instructor for the Australasian College of Dental Practitioners Graduate Diploma in Oral Implants and is also involved in live surgical training of dentists looking to begin or advance their journey in dental implantology. David thoroughly enjoys the multi-disciplinary approach to dentistry. His unique combination of education and training allows him to implement cutting-edge treatment, offering patients comprehensive, predictable and long-term treatment solutions. He is passionate about sharing knowledge and is regularly involved in training and mentoring recent graduates. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/38741030

Restorative First, Ortho Second: The Paradigm Shift in Complex Case Planning with Dr. Marcela Alvarez 10/13/2025

Restoring Anterior Implants: From ‘Something’s Off’ to Seamless Esthetics 10/07/2025

A Dentist’s Guide to Paying Less in Taxes with Travis Slade, CPA 09/29/2025

Beyond Hybrids: Rethinking Full-Arch Implant Therapy with Dr. Kim Schlam 09/18/2025

Redefining Digital Workflows in Dentistry with Dr. Kim Schlam 09/11/2025

Surgically Facilitated Orthodontics With Dr. George Mandelaris 09/02/2025

Surgically Facilitated Orthodontics With Dr. George Mandelaris Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on Dr. Mandelaris attended the University of Michigan from undergraduate through dental school. He completed a post-graduate residency program at the University of Louisville, School of Dentistry, where he obtained a certificate in the speciality of Periodontology as well as a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Oral Biology. Dr. Mandelaris is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery and has served as an examiner for Part II (oral examination) of the American Board of Periodontology’s certification process. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Graduate Periodontics at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry (Chicago, IL) and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine (Ann Arbor, MI). Dr. Mandelaris is a Fellow in both the American and International College of Dentists. Dr. Mandelaris serves as an ad-hoc reviewer for the Journal of Periodontology and the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants. In 2021, he was appointed as an Editorial Consultant to the International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry. He has published over 40 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and has authored eight chapters in seven different textbooks used worldwide on subjects related to computer guided implantology, CT/CBCT diagnostics and surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT). Dr Mandelaris is one of the recipients of the 2017 and the 2021 American Academy of Periodontology’s (AAP) Clinical Research Award, an award given to the most outstanding scientific article with direct clinical relevance in Periodontics. A nationally recognized expert, he was appointed by AAP to co-chair the Best Evidence Consensus Workshop on the use of CBCT Imaging in Periodontics as well as co-author the academy’s guidelines. In 2018, he was recognized with American Academy of Periodontology’s Special Citation Award. Dr. Mandelaris is the 2018 recipient of The Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Clinical Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning. Dr. Mandelaris currently serves on the American Academy of Periodontology Board of Trustees and has served as a Past President of the Illinois Society of Periodontists. He has served on several committees for the American Academy of Periodontology and is one of the AAPs recommended speakers on topics related to periodontics-orthodontics and imaging/implant surgery. He is a key-opinion leader for several industry leaders and holds memberships in many professional organizations, including the American Academy of Periodontology, Academy of Osseointegration, American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research. Dr. Mandelaris is in private practice at Periodontal Medicine & Surgical Specialists, LLC. He limits his practice to Periodontology, Dental Implant Surgery, Bone Reconstruction and Tissue Engineering Surgery. He can be reached at 630.627.3930 or . /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/38056855

Can Orthodontics Be Surgically Expedited? With Dr. George Mandelaris 08/26/2025

Can Orthodontics Be Surgically Expedited? With Dr. George Mandelaris Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on Dr. Mandelaris attended the University of Michigan from undergraduate through dental school. He completed a post-graduate residency program at the University of Louisville, School of Dentistry, where he obtained a certificate in the speciality of Periodontology as well as a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Oral Biology. Dr. Mandelaris is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery and has served as an examiner for Part II (oral examination) of the American Board of Periodontology’s certification process. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Graduate Periodontics at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry (Chicago, IL) and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine (Ann Arbor, MI). Dr. Mandelaris is a Fellow in both the American and International College of Dentists. Dr. Mandelaris serves as an ad-hoc reviewer for the Journal of Periodontology and the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants. In 2021, he was appointed as an Editorial Consultant to the International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry. He has published over 40 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and has authored eight chapters in seven different textbooks used worldwide on subjects related to computer guided implantology, CT/CBCT diagnostics and surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT). Dr Mandelaris is one of the recipients of the 2017 and the 2021 American Academy of Periodontology’s (AAP) Clinical Research Award, an award given to the most outstanding scientific article with direct clinical relevance in Periodontics. A nationally recognized expert, he was appointed by AAP to co-chair the Best Evidence Consensus Workshop on the use of CBCT Imaging in Periodontics as well as co-author the academy’s guidelines. In 2018, he was recognized with American Academy of Periodontology’s Special Citation Award. Dr. Mandelaris is the 2018 recipient of The Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Clinical Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning. Dr. Mandelaris currently serves on the American Academy of Periodontology Board of Trustees and has served as a Past President of the Illinois Society of Periodontists. He has served on several committees for the American Academy of Periodontology and is one of the AAPs recommended speakers on topics related to periodontics-orthodontics and imaging/implant surgery. He is a key-opinion leader for several industry leaders and holds memberships in many professional organizations, including the American Academy of Periodontology, Academy of Osseointegration, American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research. Dr. Mandelaris is in private practice at Periodontal Medicine & Surgical Specialists, LLC. He limits his practice to Periodontology, Dental Implant Surgery, Bone Reconstruction and Tissue Engineering Surgery. He can be reached at 630.627.3930 or . /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/37956835

Facing Difficult Occlusal Scenarios with Dr. Gregg Kinzer 08/19/2025

Facing Difficult Occlusal Scenarios with Dr. Gregg Kinzer Join Elevated GP: Follow @dental_digest_podcast Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on His interdisciplinary approach to dentistry is founded in both empirical research and clinical experience. He attended the University of Washington for both his undergraduate and graduate studies where he received his D.D.S. degree in 1995 and an M.S.D. and certificate in Prosthodontics in 1998. For his entire career, Dr. Kinzer has been committed to furthering the art and science of dental education. His unique ability to impart complex clinical processes in a logical, systematic and clear methodology differentiates him from other Prosthodontists and makes him a highly regarded educator nationally and internationally. He is a full-time teaching faculty at Spear Education in Scottsdale, AZ. where he is also resides as the Faculty Chairman and Director of Curriculum and Campus Education. Dr. Kinzer is an Affiliate Assistant Professor in the Graduate Prosthodontics Department at the University of Washington School of Dentistry and an Adjunct Faculty at Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Dr. Kinzer is a member of many professional organizations including the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, of which he is currently the sitting President. He serves on the editorial review board for several recognized dental publications and has written numerous articles and chapters for dental publication. He has been honored with the American College of Prosthodontics Achievement Award and in 2018, he received the Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning from the Seattle Study Club. In 2022 he was inducted into the World’s Top 100 Doctors as part of the Interdisciplinary Cohort. In his free time, Gregg cherishes spending time his wife Jill and their 6 children. He enjoys anything that he can do outside: golfing, hiking, running, skiing, and biking, in addition to a nice glass of wine. /episode/index/show/dentaldigest/id/37850380

Alternative to the "Maryland Bridge" with Dr. Bill Robbins 08/14/2025

Caries Management with Dr. Peter Milgrom 08/05/2025

Leveraging Advanced Imaging for TMD Patients with Dr. Drew McDonald 07/29/2025

Managing Occlusion in Wear Patients with Dr. Gregg Kinzer 07/22/2025

Back-to-Back Class IIs with Dr. Matt Burton 07/08/2025

Hustle Era is Over with Dr. Frank Spear 06/29/2025

273. Implant Prosthodontics Demystified with Dr. Todd Schoenbaum 06/21/2025

272. Operative Dentistry Hacks [Replay] with Dr. Bob Margeas 06/13/2025

Dental Digest Podcast with Dr. Melissa Seibert

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